Good Day
Abilene
Friday, April 17th, 2026
Good morning, Abilene. Here's your local news at a glance for Friday, the 17th of April.
COMMUNITY NEWS
- ➤ Abilene is set to open two new recreation centers and library branches on April 22 at Arthur Sears Park and Carver Park. The modern facilities offer free access for residents and feature spaces for exercise classes, gaming, and indoor walking tracks in a family-friendly design. Abilene Reporter News
- ➤ A local veteran center supports heroes with programs that connect them to basic needs and vital resources. KTXS will meet with center leaders today to discuss the services and their community impact. KTXS
CULTURE NEWS
- ➤ On Tuesday, Apr. 14, Disability In Action hosted a paint party organized by independent living specialist Michelle Lashley through her side business Twisted Paintbrush; participants chose from three pre-drawn canvases to explore creative expression in a supportive setting. Abilene Reporter News
EDUCATION NEWS
- ➤ Katie Myers of Wylie East Intermediate School was honored with this week’s Teacher Tribute by Arrow Ford Motors. She expressed gratitude for the recognition and noted her strong connection with students who value her caring, fun projects. KTXS
ENVIRONMENT NEWS
- ➤ State environmental officials investigated a suspected hydrogen sulfide release at the Petrosmith facility on Wednesday, April 15 at 12:30 p.m. and found no harmful chemicals — a related vessel was later removed for further cleaning. KTXS
GOVERNMENT NEWS
- ➤ The 1915 Taylor County Courthouse was rededicated after a $21 million renovation modernized its office space while preserving its historic structure. Funding came from the Texas Historical Commission and county bonds, and officials said (it replaced a fire-damaged building) the courthouse is ready to serve the community for 111 years. KTXS
LIFESTYLE NEWS
- ➤ The HERPS Exotic Reptile and Pet Expo returns to Taylor County Expo Center this weekend with vendors selling reptiles, tarantulas, and other critters. It runs Saturday (10 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Sunday (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) with varied ticket prices for adults and children. Abilene Reporter News
SPORTS NEWS
- ➤ PickleTex, a new pickleball complex at the 1200 block of Ruswood Drive in north Abilene, secures a city council zoning waiver and begins permitting and construction to open in July — the facility will feature six outdoor and three indoor courts, a pro shop and paddle rentals. KTXS
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5K Run & 1 Mile Walk – Heirs to the Throne
9 AM – 3 PM — Redbud Park — Registration required — Family-friendly run and walk to support local mentorship programs and retreats.
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Toadies Live at Potosi
7-10 p.m. — Fun Town RV Event Center — All Ages — Experience Toadies performing their new album 'The Charmer' crafted with the legendary Steve Albini.
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Bob Dylan Concert
8:00 – 9:30 p.m. — Abilene Convention Center — Tickets on sale Dec 12 — Experience the legendary Bob Dylan on the final stop of his U.S. tour showcasing his iconic songwriting.
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Big Country CASA’s Superhero 5K
9-10:30 a.m. — Williams Performing Arts Center — Registration required — Race to support CASA and enjoy a superhero-themed fun run.
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2026 RHAA National Finals
10 AM – 10 AM — Western Heritage Classic — Entry fees apply — Watch some of the best ranch horses and riders compete for championship titles in Abilene, Texas.
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24K Magic: Bruno Mars Tribute Show
7-8 p.m. — Potosi Live — $30 and $57 — Experience the electrifying energy of the #1 Bruno Mars tribute band while supporting a scholarship fund.
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TLCA Eagles Spring Market
4-7 p.m. — Elm Creek at Wylie Subdivision — Support local vendors — Enjoy a fun shopping experience with student and local vendors for Mother’s Day weekend.
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Big Country Veterans Expo and Car Show
9 AM - 2 PM — Taylor County Coliseum — Free entry — Discover essential resources for veterans while enjoying a fun car show.
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Reveal the authorAbout Good Day Abilene
Welcome to the Good Day Abilene, your community newsletter that's anything but snooze-worthy, packed with positive, impactful local news + events across the Abilene, Texas community. If you like the Good Day Abilene, support us by subscribing to our email newsletter and sharing us with your friends and family in Abilene.
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